Spiritual Family Rituals

Guest Blogger: Josh Stoddard

I wanted to talk a little about how important a family can be to developing spiritual attributes. I know that many people have complicated family situations and that the types of families vary widely; however, I know that for me personally many of the spiritual habits that I currently have are largely due to my family. These are the spiritual habits that lead to my testimony and currently are helping me in my conversion to the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They have eternally impacted me for the better.

In my family, we would have to wake up every morning at 6:20, even in the summer, in order to read family scriptures and do family prayer. Although many times I was not very excited to wake up early and I was having more dreams than learning experiences, I came to understand the importance of scripture reading. After many years of doing this, I personally decided to start waking up at 5:50 so I could read the scriptures 30 minutes on my own before I went and read with my family. This is just a small example of how spiritual habits that my mother and father started have continued on into the lives of all their children. There are many more besides reading scriptures such as prayer, regular church attendance and service to others.

I really do love the commandment that the Lord gives in 3 Nephi 18:21 when he says “Pray in your families unto the Father, always in my name, that your wives and your children may be blessed.” I have seen how this promise is true. I have seen my parents, siblings and I all get blessed because of our family prayers. I firmly believe that the prophets of the Book of Mormon followed this council and helped create spiritual habits in their families which affected the lives of their children.

            I also just love how these spiritual habits that we create in the family transcend generations! I really look forward to the day when I can wake up my own kids and read the scriptures with them. Even though there will surely be times when they are cranky and do not get much out of it, just as there was in my own family, I hope that they too can understand the importance of these spiritual habits. I pray that one day I will be able to experience the joy that John refers to when he says “I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.”

How to Receive More Personal Revelation - Record Promptings

As a parent and an individual, I realize on a daily basis that life goes better if I can hear the promptings Heavenly Father is trying to help me with. I have gathered and studied conference talks on how to improve personal revelation and one of the suggestions that I have tried to implement is recording the promptings/feelings I get. One of the lessons I have learned the hard way is that it is much easier to record the prompting accurately if I record it right when I feel it, otherwise the memory of the details dims.

The first talk I studied that taught me to record promptings was back in 1998 when Elder Richard G. Scott gave the talk, "Helping Others to Be Spiritually Led." He goes into great detail with specific suggestions, so I included more of his talk down below after the main quotes.

1)     “It is through the repeated process of feeling impressions, recording them and obeying them, that one learns to depend on direction of the Spirit.  We often leave the most precious personal direction of the Spirit unheard because we do not record and respond to the first promptings that come to us when the Lord chooses to direct us, or when impressions come in response to urgent prayer. 

After each powerful impression was recorded, I pondered it, seeking to confirm that I had accurately expressed the feelings I had received. I then prayed, expressing to the Lord what I thought I had been taught by the Spirit. Feelings of peace confirmed the appropriateness of what I had recorded.  --Richard G. Scott, Helping Others to Be Spiritually Led 

2)     “Write down impressions or thoughts that you feel came from God. … Think carefully about whether the truth you received requires action. It is by obedience to commandments that we qualify for further revelation of truth and light” --Elder Henry B. Eyring “A Life Founded in Light and Truth,” Ensign, July 2001

3)     I see you sometimes reading a few verses, stopping to ponder them, carefully reading the verses again, and as you think about what they mean, praying for understanding, asking questions in your mind, waiting for spiritual impressions, and writing down the impressions and insights that come so you can remember and learn more. --Elder D. Todd Christofferson, 2004 “When Thou Art Converted”

4)    Just as I got to the door, I heard in my mind—not in my own voice—these words: “I’m not giving you these experiences for yourself. Write them down.” I wrote down a few lines every day for years. I never missed a day no matter how tired I was or how early I would have to start the next day. Before I would write, I would ponder this question: “Have I seen the hand of God reaching out to touch us or our children or our family today?” As I kept at it, something began to happen. As I would cast my mind over the day, I would see evidence of what God had done for one of us that I had not recognized in the busy moments of the day. As that happened, and it happened often, I realized that trying to remember had allowed God to show me what He had done.

More than gratitude began to grow in my heart. Testimony grew. I became ever more certain that our Heavenly Father hears and answers prayers. I felt more gratitude for the softening and refining that come because of the Atonement of the Savior Jesus Christ. And I grew more confident that the Holy Ghost can bring all things to our remembrance—even things we did not notice or pay attention to when they happened.

--Pres. Henry B. Eyring, 2007 “O Remember, Remember”

Find a quiet place where you can regularly go. Humble yourself before God. Pour out your heart to your Heavenly Father. Turn to Him for answers and for comfort. Pray in the name of Jesus Christ about your concerns, your fears, your weaknesses—yes, the very longings of your heart.

And then listen! Write the thoughts that come to your mind. Record your feelings and follow through with actions that you are prompted to take. As you repeat this process day after day, month after month, year after year, you will “grow into the principle of revelation.”  -Pres. Nelson

President Russell M. Nelson, “True Millennials: Do the Impossible,”

Great power lies in learning who you really are. Ask your Heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, how He feels about you and your mission here on earth. If you ask with real intent, over time the Spirit will whisper the life-changing truth to you. Record those impressions and review them often, and follow through with exactness. 

Elder David A Bednar, “Receiving, Recognizing, and Responding to the Promptings ofthe Holy Ghost,” 1999

Have you ever received and recognized a prompting from the Holy Ghost, and then decided to respond to it "later"? And then when later arrived, you found that you could not remember the prompting. I have learned that acting upon promptings quickly greatly increases our capacity to receive and recognize the influence of the Holy Ghost. I have also learned that properly recording spiritual impressions demonstrates to the Savior how much I treasure His direction. The simple practice of writing down spiritual thoughts and feelings greatly enhances the likelihood of receiving and recognizing additional promptings from the Holy Ghost.

Other Excerpts: Richard G. Scott, Helping Others to Be Spiritually Led

The Savior said, “I will tell you in your mind and in your heart, by the Holy Ghost” (D&C 8:2; italics added). I would explain to the students that an impression to the mind is very specific.

Detailed words can be heard or felt and written as though the instruction were being dictated.

A communication to the heart is a more general impression. The Lord often begins by giving impressions. Where there is a recognition of their importance and they are obeyed, one gains more capacity to receive more detailed instruction to the mind. An impression to the heart, if followed, is fortified by a more specific instruction to the mind. …

… Let’s discuss different ways of learning from the scriptures.

You’ve had the experience of when something urgent is needed to be resolved, you pray, you ponder, you pray more, you formulate commitments and decisions, you present them to the Lord, you pray more and get feelings of guidance from Him. 

One way is to read, ponder, and pray about the meaning of specific verses. Another is to analyze and unite related scriptures. Then on a separate sheet of paper, prepare a statement of principle that embodies the truths contained in those scriptures. When these two things are carefully and consistently done, then you can be instructed through inspiration as you search the scriptures. …

The Lord chose that moment to answer my pleadings. I began to receive distinct direction regarding how to help the leaders and members overcome false traditions. There were other impressions intended for me personally. As each impression came, I faithfully recorded it. I was given precious truths that were greatly needed to be a more effective servant of the Lord.

While the details of the communication are sacred, like a patriarchal blessing—for the benefit of the recipient—I will share some of the insight gained and the unfolding of other truths that occurred that day. It is an example of the inspired direction from the Lord through the Holy Ghost that anyone can receive when the doctrines we have discussed are conscientiously applied.

The specific counsel began with this statement: “You are to continue to build the Church on a foundation of true principles, but with increased expression of love and appreciation you have been blessed to understand and feel for the great Lamanite people.” There followed specific directions, instructions, and conditioned promises that have altered the course of my life.

I began to write the instructions given directly to my mind. Some of the paragraphs begin with phrases such as these: “Teach and testify to instruct, edify, and lead others to full obedience, not to demonstrate anything of self. All who are puffed up shall be cut off.”

Another entry reads, “You are nothing in and of yourself, Richard.” That was followed by some specific counsel on how to become more effective as an instrument of the Lord. Then later a section begins, “Through qualification by obedience, self-restraint, and the power of faith.” That phrase is followed by further promises conditioned upon those requisites.

In this experience there came such an outpouring of personal impressions that I felt inappropriate to record in the midst of a Sunday School class. In a more private location I continued to write the feelings that flooded into my mind, as accurately as possible. After each powerful impression was recorded, I pondered it, seeking to confirm that I had accurately expressed the feelings I had received. I then prayed, expressing to the Lord what I thought I had been taught by the Spirit. Feelings of peace confirmed the appropriateness of what I had recorded.

I was impressed to ask if there were more I should receive. There came further impressions and the process was repeated until I received some of the most precious, specific direction that anyone could ever hope to obtain in this life.

This is not an isolated experience. I know that sincere, righteous individuals who follow the principles we have discussed will enjoy such direction from the Lord. Please help your students to understand these principles and to receive confirmation from your own testimony of the reality of spiritual direction that will encourage them to seek such guidance. Prayerfully help them understand that such guidance is as real as are the five physical senses.

Personal Revelation: General Comments about the Gift of the Holy Ghost

1.   The spirit of God speaking to the spirit of man has power to impart truth with greater effect and understanding than by personal contact even with Heavenly Beings. Through the Holy Ghost the truth is woven into the very fibers and sinews of the body so that it cannot be forgotten.  Joseph F. Smith, "The Instructor," Oct. 1935

2.   Men ought—above all things in this world—to seek for the guidance of the Holy Spirit. There is no price too high, no struggle too severe, no sacrifice too great, if out of it all we enjoy the gift of the Holy Ghost.  Bruce R. McConkie, A New Witness for the Articles of Faith, p. 253

3.   President Boyd K. Packer has counseled us that often when we receive guidance from the Holy Ghost, we get directions without explanation.  Neal A. Maxwell, The Promise of Discipleship, p. 99

4.   There is no doubt, if a person lives according to the revelations given to God’s people, he may have the Spirit of the Lord to signify to him His will, and to guide and to direct him in the discharge of his duties, in his temporal as well as his spiritual exercises.  I am satisfied, however, that in this respect, we live far beneath our privileges. Brigham Young, Journal of Discourses, p. 32

5.   There are two parts to your nature—your temporal body born of mortal parents, and your immortal spirit within. You are a son or daughter of God.  Physically you can see with eyes and hear with ears and touch and feel and learn. Through your intellect, you learn most of what you know about the world in which we live. But if you learn by reason only, you will never understand the Spirit and how it works—regardless of how much you learn about other things.  Your spirit learns in a different way than does your intellect. Boyd K. Packer, “Personal Revelation” Ensign, Nov 1994

6.   On one occasion in a meeting I heard President Marion G. Romney say, "I always know when I am speaking under the inspiration of the Holy Ghost because I always learn something from what I've said. Boyd K. Packer, Teach Ye Diligently, p.357

7.   Rather than take notes, pay attention to the impressions you receive as we consider a most sacred topic. If all that you know after tonight is what you hear, then you will have missed the meaning of this discussion. Boyd K Packer – CES Devotional, Nov. 6, 2011

8.   The best counsel for us to give young people is that they can arrive back to Heavenly Father only as they are guided and corrected by the Spirit of God. So if we are wise, we will encourage, praise, and exemplify everything which invites the companionship of the Holy Ghost. Henry B. Eyring, "Help Them on Their Way Home," Ensign, May 2010, 25

9.   Baptism by immersion symbolizes the death and burial of the man of sin; and the coming forth out of the water, the resurrection to a newness of spiritual life. After baptism, hands are laid upon the head of the baptized believer, and he is blessed to receive the Holy Ghost. Thus does the one baptized receive the promise or gift of the Holy Ghost, or the privilege of being brought back into the presence of one of the Godhead; by obedience and through his faithfulness, one so blessed might receive the guidance and direction of the Holy Ghost in his daily walks and talks, even as Adam walked and talked in the Garden of Eden with God, his Heavenly Father. To receive such guidance and such direction from the Holy Ghost is to be spiritually reborn.  Teachings of Presidents of the Church: Harold B. Lee, Chapter 4

10. Elder Orson Pratt (1811–81) of the Quorum of theTwelve Apostles taught that “whenever the Holy Ghost takes up its residence in a person, it not only cleanses, sanctifies, and purifies him, in proportion as he yields himself to its influence, but also imparts to him some gift, intended for the benefit of himself and others. … These spiritual gifts are distributed among the members of the Church, according to their faithfulness, circumstances, natural abilities, duties, and callings; that the whole may be properly instructed, confirmed, perfected, and saved.”

10. Find a quiet place where you can regularly go. Humble yourself before God. Pour out your heart to your Heavenly Father. Turn to Him for answers and for comfort. Pray in the name of Jesus Christ about your concerns, your fears, your weaknesses—yes, the very longings of your heart.

And then listen! Write the thoughts that come to your mind. Record your feelings and follow through with actions that you are prompted to take. As you repeat this process day after day, month after month, year after year, you will “grow into the principle of revelation.”  -Pres. Nelson

How Can I Make My Prayers more Meaningful: Studying Great Prayers Found in the Scriptures

In trying to make my own prayers more meaningful, I decided to study some of the great prayers from the scriptures and also what modern prophets and apostles have said. When I face challenges or questions that really require sincere prayer, I have found that if I incorporate each of the 5 ideas listed below, I feel the Spirit of the Lord with me in much greater abundance.

Examples of Powerful Prayers from the Scriptures

Examples of Prayers	Dedication of Kirtland Temple D&C 109	Nephi (2 Nephi 4)	Brother of Jared Ether 2 & 3	Modern Prophets & Apostles
1.    Expressions of Gratitude	1 Thanks be to thy name, O Lord God of Israel, who keepest covenant and showest mercy unto thy servants who walk uprightly before thee, with all their hearts—			Each prayer is tailored to its purpose, with a clear statement of what needs resolution, as well as ample expression of gratitude for specific, recognized blessings. E. Scott Fourth, it is an opportunity to express thanksgiving and gratitude to our Creator. It is important that we frequently say: “We thank Thee … , “ “We acknowledge before Thee … ,” “We are grateful unto Thee …”  Faust
2.    Requests for forgiveness		My heart exclaimeth: O wretched man that I am! Yea, my heart sorroweth because of my flesh; my soul grieveth because of mine iniquities.  18 I am encompassed about, because of the temptations and the sins which do so easily beset me.	2 Now behold, O Lord, and do not be angry with thy servant because of his weakness before thee. 3 O Lord, look upon me in pity, and turn away thine anger from this thy people, and suffer not that they shall go forth across this raging deep in darkness.	Second, it is a sincere confession of sin and transgression and a request for forgiveness. E. Faust Asking that Thou wilt forgive our arrogance, pass by our sins, be kind and gracious to us, and cause our hearts to turn with love toward Thee. Pres. Hinckley
3.    Acknowledging our dependence on Him		20 My God hath been my support; he hath led me through mine afflictions in the wilderness; and he hath preserved me upon the waters of the great deep.	2 Now behold, O Lord, and do not be angry with thy servant because of his weakness before thee; for we know that thou art holy and dwellest in the heavens, and that we are unworthy before thee; because of the fall our natures have become evil continually; 3 O Lord, look upon me in pity.	Third, it is recognition that we need help beyond our own ability. E. Faust
4.    Testimony that God has all power, love, and knowledge, and that He will answer our prayers		20 My God hath been my support; he hath led me through mine afflictions in the wilderness; and he hath preserved me upon the waters of the great deep.  21 He hath filled me with his love, even unto the consuming of my flesh.  22 He hath confounded mine enemies, unto the causing of them to quake before me. 35 Yea, I know that God will give liberally to him that asketh. Yea, my God will give me, if I ask not amiss;	2 We must call upon thee, that from thee we may receive according to our desires. For we know that thou art holy and dwellest in the heavens. 4 And I know, O Lord, that thou hast all power, and can do whatsoever thou wilt for the benefit of man; therefore touch these stones, O Lord, with thy finger, 5 Behold, O Lord, thou canst do this. We know that thou art able to show forth great power, which looks small unto the understanding of men.	Prayer is a humble acknowledgment that God is our Father and that the Lord Jesus Christ is our Savior and Redeemer.  As we pray we should think of our Father in Heaven as possessing all knowledge, love, understanding, & compassion. E.Faust He confides in the certainty that His answer will come when most needed. E. Scott Thou who art the governor of the universe, Thou who art our Father and our God, whose children we are, we look to Thee in faith in this dark and solemn time. Pres. Hinckley

Examples of Powerful Prayers from the Scriptures (cont.)

Examples of Prayers	Dedication of Kirtland Temple D&C 109	Nephi (2 Nephi 4)	Brother of Jared Ether 2 & 3	Modern Prophets & Apostles
4.    Asking for Specific Blessings, acknowledging that His will be done	10 We ask thee to assist us, thy people, with thy grace, in calling our solemn assembly, that it may be done to thine honor and to thy acceptance;  11 And in a manner that we may be found worthy, in thy sight, to secure a fulfilment of the promises which thou hast made unto us. 12 That thy holy presence may be continually in this house;  13 And that all people who shall enter ... the Lord’s house may feel thy power.  15 And that they receive a fulness of the Holy Ghost. 22 And we ask thee, Holy Father, that thy servants may go forth from this house armed with thy power - Many more are listed	31 O Lord, wilt thou redeem my soul? Wilt thou deliver me out of the hands of mine enemies? Wilt thou make me that I may shake at the appearance of sin?  32 May the gates of hell be shut continually before me, because that my heart is broken and my spirit is contrite! ...that I may be strict in the plain road! 34 O Lord, I have trusted in thee, and I will trust in thee forever. I will not put my trust in the arm of flesh;	19 O Lord, in them there is no light; whither shall we steer? And also we shall perish, for in them we cannot breathe, save it is the air which is in them; therefore we shall perish. 4 Touch these stones, O Lord, with thy finger, and prepare them that they may shine forth in darkness; and they shall shine forth unto us in the vessels	A key to improved prayer is to learn to ask the right questions. E. Scott An important element of all of our prayers might well be to follow the pattern of that prayer in Gethsemane: “not my will, but thine, be done.” By this, then, we acknowledge our devotion and submission to the overriding purposes of the Lord in our lives.  --James E. Faust
5.    Acknowledging that we have kept the commandments	2 Thou who hast commanded thy servants to build a house to thy name in this place [Kirtland].  3 And now thou beholdest, O Lord, that thy servants have done according to thy commandment. 5 For thou knowest that we have done this work through great tribulation; and out of our poverty we have given of our substance to build a house to thy name, that the Son of Man might have a place to manifest himself to his people.		18 The brother of Jared cried unto the Lord, saying: O Lord, I have performed the work which thou hast commanded me...

Other prayers to study: Jesus’ Intercessory Prayer, 

How Can I Make My Prayers More Meaningful? Gratitude, Express Faith, Acknowledge Dependency

To those within the sound of my voice who are struggling with challenges and difficulties large and small, prayer is the provider of spiritual strength; it is the passport to peace. Prayer is the means by which we approach our Father in Heaven, who loves us. Speak to Him in prayer and then listen for the answer. Miracles are wrought through prayer.     --Thomas S. Monson Apr 2009

Bible Dictionary - Prayer:

·         As soon as we learn the true relationship in which we stand toward God (namely, God is our Father), then at once prayer becomes natural and instinctive on our part.

·         Many of the so-called difficulties about prayer arise from forgetting this relationship.

·         Prayer is the act by which the will of the Father and the will of the child are brought into correspondence with each other.

·         The object of prayer is not to change the will of God but to secure for ourselves and for others blessings that God is already willing to grant but that are made conditional on our asking for them.

·         Blessings require some work or effort on our part before we can obtain them. Prayer is a form of work and is an appointed means for obtaining the highest of all blessings.

1.    Express gratitude for specific, recognized blessings

a.     You can also learn from him by carefully studying the exceptional public prayer he offered at the conclusion of the October 2001 conference for Father’s children throughout the world.   Study that prayer, and you will find that there are no vain repetitions, no posturing to impress others, as sometimes occurs. Each prayer is tailored to its purpose, with a clear statement of what needs resolution, as well as ample expression of gratitude for specific, recognized blessings. --Richard G. Scott, “Using the Supernal Gift of Prayer,” Ensign, May 2007

2.    Testify to the Lord that you know He loves you and has the power to answer your prayers

a.     Study that prayer, and you will find that there are no vain repetitions, no posturing to impress others, as sometimes occurs. He combines simple words eloquently. He prays as a humble, trusting son who knows well his beloved Father in Heaven. He confides in the certainty that His answer will come when most needed. --Richard G. Scott, “Using the Supernal Gift of Prayer,” Ensign, May 2007, 8–11

b.     Each of us has problems that we cannot solve and weaknesses that we cannot conquer without reaching out through prayer to a higher source of strength. As we pray we should think of our Father in Heaven as possessing all knowledge, understanding, love, and compassion.   --James E. Faust, “The Lifeline of Prayer,” Ensign, May 2002

3.    Acknowledge your dependency on Him and your inability to solve the problem as well as He can

a.     First, prayer is a humble acknowledgment that God is our Father and that the Lord Jesus Christ is our Savior and Redeemer. Second, it is a sincere confession of sin and transgression and a request for forgiveness. Third, it is recognition that we need help beyond our own ability.  --James E. Faust, “The Lifeline of Prayer,” Ensign, May 2002

b.     Discerning and accepting the will of God in our lives are fundamental elements of asking in faith in meaningful prayer. However, simply saying the words “Thy will be done” is not enough. Each of us needs God’s help in surrendering our will to Him.  “Prayer is the act by which the will of the Father and the will of the child are brought into correspondence with each other” (Bible Dictionary, “Prayer,” 752–53). Humble, earnest, and persistent prayer enables us to recognize and align ourselves with the will of our Heavenly Father. The object of our prayers should not be to present a wish list or a series of requests but to secure for ourselves and for others blessings that God is eager to bestow, according to His will and timing. Every sincere prayer is heard and answered by our Heavenly Father, but the answers we receive may not be what we expect or come to us when we want or in the way we anticipate. --David A. Bednar, “Ask in Faith,” Ensign, May 2008

                                          i.     

4.    Ask that His will be done

a.     I recognize that, on occasion, some of our most fervent prayers may seem to go unanswered. We wonder, “Why?” I know that feeling! I know the fears and tears of such moments. But I also know that our prayers are never ignored. Our faith is never unappreciated. I know that an all-wise Heavenly Father’s perspective is much broader than is ours. While we know of our mortal problems and pain, He knows of our immortal progress and potential. If we pray to know His will and submit ourselves to it with patience and courage, heavenly healing can take place in His own way and time. --Russell M. Nelson, “Jesus Christ—the Master Healer,” Ensign, Nov 2005

b.     An important element of all of our prayers might well be to follow the pattern of that prayer in Gethsemane: “not my will, but thine, be done.” By this, then, we acknowledge our devotion and submission to the overriding purposes of the Lord in our lives.   --James E. Faust, “The Lifeline of Prayer,” Ensign, May 2002

How Can I Make My Prayers More Meaningful? Ask Specific Questions, Pray Aloud, and Act

1.    Pray with Sincerity and acknowledge obedience

a.     “I wonder if we can ever really fathom the immense power of prayer until we encounter an overpowering, urgent problem and realize that we are powerless to resolve it. Then we will turn to our Father in humble recognition of our total dependence on Him. --Richard G. Scott, “Using the Supernal Gift of Prayer,” Ensign, May 2007, 8–11

b.     “[Mother would] call on the Lord with perfect confidence when special blessings were needed.” In her prayers, she would speak to the Lord of her covenants with Him, “almost reminding the Lord that we had paid our tithes and offerings, that the desired blessing was, as nearly as we could judge, a righteous desire, that we were serving in our various callings to the best of our ability, and that now we were laying hold on the Lord’s promises. I can’t communicate the sincerity and the fervor of those pleas. Or the sincerity of the way she lived. … Because my mother had no doubts about the Lord’s reality and his ability to answer her prayers, I haven’t either. … This is a very personal thing to talk about and I don’t very often, because it’s hard to do without sounding overconfident. But I would be scared to death to try and undertake something without asking for the Lord’s help, so I always pray for that help, and I’ve never failed to get it.”   --“Dallin H. Oaks: The Disciplined Edge,” Ensign, Apr. 1981, 37

c.        Pray to Him when you are discouraged, because I testify that He does hear our cries for help. In his insightful discourse on prayer, the prophet Zenos observed, “And thou didst hear me because of mine afflictions and my sincerity” (Alma 33:11). --James E. Faust, “Welcoming Every Single One,” Liahona, Aug 2007, 2–6

d.       Jeremiah counsels us to pray with all our heart and soul.  Enos recounted how his soul had hungered and that he had prayed all the day long.  Prayers vary in their intensity. Even the Savior “prayed more earnestly” in His hour of agony.  In times of great personal hurt or need, more may be required than mere asking. The Lord said, “You have supposed that I would give it unto you, when you took no thought save it was to ask me.”  Blessings sought through prayer sometimes require work, effort, and diligence on our part.  For example, at times fasting is appropriate as a strong evidence of our sincerity. When we fast we humble our souls, which brings us more in tune with God and His holy purposes.  --James E. Faust, “The Lifeline of Prayer,” Ensign, May 2002, 59

2.    Pray for specifics – Ask the right question

a.     A key to improved prayer is to learn to ask the right questions. Consider changing from asking for the things you want to honestly seeking what He wants for you. Then as you learn His will, pray that you will be led to have the strength to fulfill it.   Each prayer is tailored to its purpose, with a clear statement of what needs resolution.  --Richard G. Scott, “Using the Supernal Gift of Prayer,” Ensign, May 2007, 8–11

b.     Fifth, it is a privilege to ask Deity for specific blessings.  --James E. Faust, “The Lifeline of Prayer,” Ensign, May 2002, 59

c.     Elder Nelson said it not only was it important to pray for the right thing, put it was important to pray for the specific, right thing.  (Grandpa quoted)

d.     "It seems to me that there is a great power in the Church--in all of us--that is untapped because we are always setting about to do things in our way, when the Lord's way would accomplish much greater returns. And then, when we don't know what to do or think, or what would be the Lord's way or will, we don't ask. Why don't we talk to our Father? In specifics? About real problems? As often as we would with our earthly father if he were nearby? Improvement Era, May 1970

3. Pray aloud

a.    “At least every morning and every night, we should find a place that is free from distractions and kneel in humility and commune with our Heavenly Father. Although sometimes we may need to pray silently, we should make an extra effort at times to pray vocally (see D&C 19:28; 20:51).” --Gospel Topics, Personal Prayer LDS.org

b.    “I wonder if we can ever really fathom the immense power of prayer until we encounter an overpowering, urgent problem and realize that we are powerless to resolve it. Then we will turn to our Father in humble recognition of our total dependence on Him. It helps to find a secluded place where our feelings can be vocally expressed as long and as intensely as necessary.” --Richard G. Scott, “Using the Supernal Gift of Prayer,” Ensign, May 2007, 8–11

c. Elder Jeffrey R. Holland, 11/20

I Hear Him by Making Quality Time to Pray Vocally

As Joseph did, I believe it is important for us to pray out loud. It is basic to what God intends for us in our communication with Him. He invites a conversation, if you will, and wants so much to “hear us.” We should make every effort to let Him hear us—literally.

The scriptures occasionally talk about the Lord speaking, and they sometimes describe His voice. Sometimes it is a soft voice. Sometimes it is a loud voice. But it is always a penetrating voice. It is always a voice that captivates and engages the whole soul. For me, to say out loud the words of my prayer is to make it crisp and almost visible. Prayer takes on a meaning and a life that is not quite the same when I am just thinking words or mumbling a bit. When we communicate clearly to Him, we can expect to “hear Him” more clearly in return.

If you wait until midnight, when you are exhausted, and then say your prayers, it might be only a half-hearted effort before you tumble into bed. Consider moving that prayer up to earlier in the evening, when you are alert and attentive and can make it more powerful. Prayer time ought to be quality time, not just time that happens to be left over when everything else is done—the last gasp of the day, so to speak.

4. Listen and Ponder

a.    President Gordon B. Hinckley observed: “The trouble with most of our prayers is that we give them as if we were picking up the telephone and ordering groceries—we place our order and hang up. We need to meditate, contemplate, [and] think of what we are praying about and for.”2 --Teachings of Gordon B. Hinckley (1997), 469.

5. Act
Please notice the requirement to ask in faith, which I understand to mean the necessity to not only express but to do, the dual obligation to both plead and to perform.  Joseph’s prayer was not simply, “Which church is right?” His question was, “Which church should I join?” Joseph went to the grove to ask in faith, and he was determined to act. 

6. A common element in many of our prayers is a request that the missionaries will be led to individuals and families who are prepared to receive the message of the Restoration. But ultimately it is my responsibility and your responsibility to find people for the missionaries to teach. Missionaries are full-time teachers; you and I are full-time finders. And you and I as lifelong missionaries should not be praying for the full-time missionaries to do our work!  If you and I would truly pray and ask in faith, if we would pray with the expectation to act and not just to express—then the work of proclaiming the gospel would move forward in a remarkable way.

7. Such a prayer of faith might include some of the following elements:   Asking for courage and boldness to open our mouths and share the gospel with our family and friends.  Entreating Heavenly Father to help us identify individuals and families who will be receptive to our invitation to be taught by the missionaries in our homes.  This same pattern of holy communication and consecrated work can be applied in our prayers for the poor and the needy, for the sick and the afflicted, for family members and friends who are struggling, and for those who are not attending Church meetings.  --David A. Bednar, “Ask in Faith,” Ensign, May 2008, 94–97